Delta honours five firefighters

By Sandor Gyarmati Delta Optimist 01/31/07

Delta firefighters were recognized Monday for their valiant efforts during a tragic house fire last month which claimed three young lives.

On Dec. 12, 2006, a fire devoured a small rented house on 115th Street in North Delta. Four people were in the house at the time of the fire, which erupted shortly after 4 a.m.

Twenty firefighters fought the blaze for about 90 minutes before knocking it down. In the end, the 20-year-old home was completely destroyed.

Among the firefighters recognized by Delta council were Guy Biggar, Aaron Kokotailo, Troy Schroeder, Jason Bukowski and Patrick O'Connell, all of whom entered the burning home.

The five received certificates of appreciation from Mayor Lois Jackson, who said it was important to recognize the firefighters' bravery and professionalism.

"The details of that horrific morning will be etched in everyone's mind forever, but none more than those who were first on the scene to face this severe situation," said Jackson.

The mayor noted the heat of the fire at one point became so intense one of the firefighter's helmets began to melt.

Saying fire departments constantly emphasize teamwork, fire chief Gord Freeborn said the five went above and beyond in their effort to save lives.

The fire claimed the lives 19-year-old Jeremy Babyak, Carmen Johnson, 20, and her 12-year-old sister, Cassandra Johnson.

Delta police ruled the tragic fire accidental.

The Delta police and fire departments raised several thousand dollars to help the lone survivor, Aaron Babyak, 18, who was left without a home.